More than 6 million people in the United States have an intellectual or developmental disability (IDD). These are common conditions that affect how you think and process different forms of information.
People with this type of disability are often treated unfairly, a type of discrimination called ableism. Ableist attitudes define people by their disabilities and assume that differences are weaknesses instead of strengths.
What Are Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (IDDs)?
Intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) can cause challenges with learning, language, or behavioral skills. They start during childhood and often last throughout a person’s life. Examples of IDDs include:
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Autism spectrum disorders
- Cerebral palsy
- Intellectual disability
- Language disorders
- Learning disorders
- Tourette syndrome
Every person with an IDD is unique. Even if two people have the same disability, they might face different challenges. They also might have different preferences about communication or accommodations. It’s important to ask someone with a disability about their specific wants and needs.
What Is Ableism?
It is when people are judged or treated unfairly because of a disability. They might think that people with disabilities aren’t as capable as others or need to be fixed. Ableism can be conscious or unconscious.
Ableism is fueled by stereotypes. But you can never judge a person by their disability. With the right supports, they can live productive and fulfilling lives.
The opposite of ableism is inclusion, when you accept other people’s differences and encourage them to participate in ways that feel most comfortable to them. Inclusion helps people to live healthy and happy lives and reach their full potential.
Ways to Be Inclusive of People With IDDs
Here are some tips for being more inclusive of people with IDDs. Everyone is different, so the most important thing to remember is to ask people what they prefer.
Be aware of invisible disabilities. You can’t always see a disability. Don’t ask prying questions or make comments like “You don’t look disabled.” These suggest that a person’s disability isn’t real or isn’t important.
Make a routine. Many people with IDDs need routine and order. Sticking to a routine can help them feel less anxious. Planning ahead can make it easier for people to know what to expect.
Keep things quiet. People with IDDs like autism may find social situations to be a challenge. Large groups can be more confusing than one-on-one conversations or smaller group meetings. Too much sound and activity can be overwhelming for some people. When possible, schedule events with fewer people. Choose spaces that are quiet and not distracting.
Include them in conversations. People with disabilities are often treated as if they’re invisible. Include them in conversations by using appropriate eye contact and body language. If you ask them a question, let them answer for themselves. If you’re talking to someone who has an aide, talk to the person and not just their aide.
Some people with IDDs like autism have favorite interests or conversation topics. Try to identify topics that interest both of you. Incorporate these interests into conversations. If you need to change the topic, gently let them know that you enjoyed talking about their interest and would like to talk about something else (be specific) now.
Be aware of communication differences.Don’t talk down to people with IDDs. Use simple, clear sentences and a normal pitch. People with IDDs often understand things literally, so avoid idiomatic phrases like, “It’s raining cats and dogs.”
If you are asking questions or giving directions, do one at a time. Offer clear, specific choices. If you are telling someone not to do something, let them know what to do instead. (For example, “Walk” instead of “Don’t run.”)
If someone talks slowly, give them time to collect and share their thoughts. Similarly, some people need more time to process what they hear. Don’t rush them.
Don’t worry if you can’t understand. Try asking them to repeat themselves or to say what they want to in a different way. Pay attention to facial expression and body language. A loved one or aide also might be able to help. If you still can’t understand after a few tries, don’t pretend. Tell the person that you know their words are important and that you’re sorry for not understanding.
Some people with IDDs might use sign language, ask for written instead of verbal instructions, use a communication device with audio, or point to pictures in a book. Ask people what style of communication they prefer.
Respect different habits and behaviors. People with IDDs might have different social habits from others. For example, many people with autism are uncomfortable with eye contact. If someone doesn’t meet your eyes, don’t take it personally.
If someone with Tourette syndrome has an outburst while talking to you, wait for them to finish and then continue the conversation. They can’t control when or where these outbursts happen, or even what they say or do during an outburst. They’re not trying to be rude.
Don’t assume that people need to be fixed. Many people with disabilities are happy with their lives. They don’t see their disability as a problem to be fixed or cured. Instead, they might see it as part of their identity.
Use the right language. Instead of saying “disabled person,” say “person with a disability.” This is called person-first language. Person-first language helps to respect the whole person rather than defining them by their disability. Some people prefer identity-first language (for example, “autistic person” instead of “person with autism.”) Ask people what type of language they prefer.
Similarly, a disability doesn’t make someone’s life tragic or inspirational. Many people with disabilities live happy, healthy lives. Some are proud of their disabled identity. Just like everyone else, they have challenges and try to overcome them. Stay away from calling someone a “victim” of a condition or saying things like “You’re so inspiring.”
Ableism is a widespread challenge in our society, but with care and practice, you can learn to be more supportive of people with IDDs.